The complex mind of a 6 yr old....

So this summer we have been starting to experience the joys of having a 6 year old that seems to have developed his own opinions on just about anything and everything. Some days are definitely better then others in the attitude department but man it's been a struggle.

We have always tried to instill in Hayden that his opinion matters and he should voice them but that may now be coming back to bite us in the behind. Up until this summer we always worried about Hayden being very, very shy and that he might not be able to stand up for himself. But that doesn't appear to be the case now.

Lately, he challenges me on just about everything he asks for but doesn't get during the day. It can be rather tiring on mama and honestly sometimes I'm just not sure what works best anymore. I have tried to remove privilges that he has, taken his prized DSi away, grounded him from seeing his friends but honestly it doesn't seem to phase him in the least. Any suggestions?

Now I should say Hayden is a sensible kid and a truly a good kid that demonstrates a lot of care and compassion most times but this latest stage has been challenging to say the least. I know It has been a tad bit boring around here this summer as most of his friends are away so he has been stuck with his mama and sister for the majority of the time which can't be a ball of fun for him. I'm hoping that when school starts in a month this will relax somewhat because we will be in a very busy routine.

Please tell me I'm not alone and this is just another normal stage of growing up !!